When building a new home, the excitement of selecting finishes and planning the move-in date can sometimes overshadow critical decisions that could have lasting impacts—one of the most significant being whether or not to hire a Realtor for representation. Many buyers mistakenly believe they’re saving money by going it alone, but this decision can lead to hidden costs that may affect both the investment and peace of mind.
The Real Cost of Not Having a Realtor in Your Corner
The notion that money is saved by not hiring a Realtor during a new build transaction is a common misconception. In reality, the builder has already factored the Realtor’s commission into the price of the home. Whether a buyer has their own representation or not, the cost remains the same. By choosing to go without a Realtor, the buyer is essentially giving the builder a financial advantage while leaving themselves without an advocate.
Builders employ skilled sales representatives whose primary obligation is to the builder’s interests. Without a Realtor, there is no one to protect the buyer’s interests or to negotiate on their behalf. A Realtor acts as a fiduciary, meaning they are legally bound to look out for the buyer’s best interests—something the builder’s representative is not required to do. When complications arise, which they often do in new builds, the Realtor can handle the tough conversations, allowing the buyer to maintain a positive relationship with the builder.
Building Biology Advocacy: Ensuring the Home Promotes Health and Wellness
Beyond financial and legal considerations, a home is a place where families spend a significant portion of their lives. Daniel, a Building Biology Advocate, believes that a home should not only be structurally sound but also a sanctuary that supports health and well-being. While new construction homes may appear flawless, underlying issues such as poor indoor air quality, high levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF), and other environmental toxins can often go unnoticed. These invisible factors can impact a family’s health over time, making it crucial to have a professional who knows how to identify and mitigate these risks.
The Importance of Phase Inspections: Protecting the Investment at Every Stage
To safeguard an investment in a new build, phase inspections are essential. These inspections take place at critical stages during construction, ensuring everything is being done correctly and according to code.
- Phase 1: Pre-Pour Inspection
Before the foundation is poured, this inspection ensures that the site is properly prepared, which is critical for the structural integrity of the home. - Phase 2: Pre-Drywall Inspection
After the home is framed and the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are installed, this inspection occurs before the drywall is installed. It’s a crucial check to make sure everything behind the walls meets standards, including the proper installation of plumbing systems to prevent leaks and other issues. - Phase 3: Final Inspection
Once the home is fully constructed, this inspection occurs before the final walk-through. It’s the last chance to identify any issues before closing, ensuring the home meets all expectations. - Phase 4: Builder’s Warranty Inspection
Conducted before the builder’s one-year warranty expires, this inspection helps identify any problems that have surfaced during the first year of occupancy, allowing the buyer to address them while the builder is still responsible for repairs.
Daniel’s Added Value: An Extra Set of Eyes on the New Build
Even though Daniel is not a licensed inspector or mold consultant, he takes a hands-on approach by visiting new build sites to take pictures and monitor the construction process. He advises clients to visit the site during the week when the crew is actively working, as weekends tend to present a cleaner site that may not reveal potential issues. During these visits, Daniel looks out for critical details, such as ensuring the lumber used in construction doesn’t appear moldy and is properly stored off the ground to protect it from water and moisture. These small checks can prevent significant long-term problems that could affect the health and integrity of the home.
Don’t Leave Your Largest Investment to Chance
While it might seem like skipping a Realtor saves money, the potential risks far outweigh any perceived savings. With a Realtor like Daniel, who understands the complexities of new builds, including the importance of phase inspections, Building Biology Advocacy, and on-site visits, buyers can navigate the process with confidence, knowing their investment—and their well-being—are well protected.
Working with Daniel ensures that the new home isn’t just a beautiful space but a healthy, safe, and sound environment for the family.